Common Garden Design Mistakes

Let’s face it - after a long winter cooped up indoors, we’re all itching to get back into our gardens. Whether you’re considering what to do with a brand new terrace or simply jazzing up your existing furnishings, there’s a lot to think about. From planting and potscaping to décor and accessories, the aim is to create a spectacular space that captures the essence of who you are. A sanctuary in which to relax, destress and entertain. But doing it yourself can be both complicated and expensive, especially if things go wrong.

To make things easier, our expert team have compiled a list of common mistakes and how to fix them, enabling you to absolutely nail it!

How to tackle designing your outdoor space

Interior design is a fairly straightforward process because each room has a specific purpose. But our alfresco spaces are a little different – a blank canvas if you like. To avoid manifesting a hot mess, here are some pointers to keep you centred.

• Set a budget: Don’t even start without one. It’s that simple.

• Measure up. Once you’ve grasped the size of your space, you can plan what to do with it.

• Find a focus: Whether it’s towards a breathtaking pool or an enchanting archway, know where you want your eye to travel and plan your layout around it.

• Decide on a function: Will you be throwing lavish dinner parties or doing yoga on the lawn? Your design fixtures will revolve around the intention of your space.

• Button down your style: Don’t deviate from your central theme, match your exterior with your interior and look for architectural features that can be enhanced.

• Look up: Take advantage of your wall space, hang pendant lights or grow a vertical garden – creating a haven isn’t just about thinking laterally.

10 common garden design mistakes and how to fix them

Not having a master plan

Problem: In essence, not having a master plan will derail your entire project.

Solution: Design a layout to make sure that everything is cohesive. A mood board will help simplify your colour and texture choices.

Not creating a visual connection

Problem: We often forget that our outdoor spaces are also seen from the inside of our homes. This can result in a lack of visual connection.

Solution: Take a look at your garden space through every window and make sure that you construct spectacular views.

Not planning for shade

Problem: If you don’t pay attention to the direction of the sun, you’ll end up being exposed to harsh sunlight all day.

Solution: Include some kind of shade solution like an awning, pergola or large brolly.

Shopping for the wrong type of furniture

Problem: While it’s imperative to create a synergy between the interior and exterior of your home, you can’t use indoor furnishings outside.

Solution: Shop for specialist items that are built to endure extreme weather conditions and invest in quality. You’ll find a wide range of luxury outdoor furniture at FCI London.

Sparseness and cluttering

Problem: It’s easy to under or over furnish your patio, leading to either sparseness or cluttering. Neither is attractive.

Solution: Make sure that each living space is beautifully curated, with enough seating to accommodate guests.

Not having a central theme

Problem: While eclecticism can be charming, without a central theme to tie everything together your aesthetics will look mismatched and confused.

Solution: Find at least one thing that weaves a common thread throughout your design. It can be scale, colour, height, genre or materials like wicker or rope.

Inadequate lighting

Problem: Lighting is often overlooked. Aside from adding atmosphere, it provides both safety and functionality, so it’s imperative to get it right.

Solution: Illuminate your seated area, pool and entire garden. There is a myriad of gorgeous installations to choose from. Have a look at our blog on 8 Outdoor Floor Lamps to Create Ambiance or browse our outdoor lighting range here.

Lack of accessories

Problem: You can have the most expensive furniture in the world, but without some styling, it’s going to look bland.

Solution: Add personality with a range of bespoke outdoor accessories like cushions, rugs, statues and wall art. Garden Glory has some playful options.

Bad furniture positioning

Problem: Often furniture is arranged without thought or function. This can put a dampener on your overall experience.

Solution: Make sure that your layout promotes easy conversation and allows for comfortable movement around each piece. Think about including coffee and side tables for glasses and plates.

Skimping on greenery

Problem: Whether you have a tiny balcony or acres of lawn, greenery is key, yet many people fail to add it to their décor.

Solution: Include a range of interesting planters throughout your garden. There are some marvellous ways of arranging them that will help create extra interest. For great ideas, search our outdoor planter range and read up on our Top Outdoor Planters for Gardens, Patios & Balconies.

Find your outdoor furniture solutions at FCI London

Doing DIY on your garden can be a lot of fun, but it’s also easy to come unstuck. If you need a spot of advice or are looking for something specific, then our skilled designers are ready to assist. Pop in and see us, hop on a zoom call or send us a whatsapp today.